Reduction in Force

There are few things more alarming and stressful than losing your job. The prospect seems overwhelming.

Current economic conditions are leading school districts and higher education institutions to RIF more school personnel this year than in any in recent memory. The Illinois State Board of Education estimates there will be at least 13,000 layoffs in Illinois schools this year and that number could continue to grow.

If you’ve been RIF’d, or you expect to be, you are not alone.

The Illinois Education Association has developed a series of brochures to try to help guide you through this most difficult time. Included are explanations of the RIF notice, what you’re entitled to through seniority, bumping rights, recall rights, payment of earned compensation, unemployment, health insurance, etc.

Critical information:

IEA regional office – Map and contact information for all IEA regional offices where you can get additional information and services.

Illinois Department of Employment Security – You have the right to receive unemployment compensation if you meet the state’s criteria. You can apply for unemployment through IDES, a process that can be completed online.

COBRA is a program you may be able to qualify for that allows you to continue health insurance coverage after you lose your job.

Networking opportunity:

Willing and Able Education Association is a group on facebook where you and others who have lost their jobs in this round of statewide cuts can seek counsel from each other, keep up to date with the latest information and resources and find other helpful information.

Sample letters from members of Southwestern School District

NEA Member Benefits assistance:

In recognition that RIFs similar to those that have happened in Illinois have happened across the country, NEA Member Benefits also has put together several resources on it’s special Member Assistance page on NEAMB.com. The page also includes a downloadable brochure with summary information about assistance options. You will find job search services, financial counseling, mortgage assistance programs, credit card and insurance payment options, retirement savings waivers and other information. In addition, NEA MB will continue to update the page as it finds more useful information.